Lights

This series records motion through the use of light, focusing specifically on movements that are created when doing gymnastics skills. These images encompass the entire process of each skill rather than one millisecond of it. Gymnastics has been an influence for most of my life and these images are a visual representation of the skills that I have done throughout my years as a gymnast.

Cartwheel

Switch Side

Full Turn

Front Handspring

Straddle Jump, Tuck Full

Illusion

Back Handspring, Step Out

Switch Leap

Handstand Pirouette, Split

Optionals

The optional team includes levels 6-10 in the sport of gymnastics. These girls train 25+ hours a week and for the majority, it isn't easy. It is high stress with a lot of hard work and determination that is demanded into every practice. These images focus on the in between moments of practice hours. The nitty gritty part that isn't as well known as the final performances we are accustomed to seeing. Getting to know these girls was my favorite part. I built a connection with them and would find myself feeling as if I was back in the game. Seeing their struggles and bright moments reminded me of mine. I often times found myself reminiscing while looking through the lens. Their journey is one I am glad to have captured.

Horn Island 31

Horn Island is the famous site of numerous school trips taken by the students at Memphis College of Art. Faculty and students will camp out for 10 days exploring the island and all it has to offer. An annual show is then hosted by MCA to showcase artwork that is inspired by this trip.

I decided to use alternative processes and chose cyanotypes as my main medium of expression. Using flora and fauna from the island, I created silhouetted images resting on a rich blue background. In doing so, I tried to capture the simplicity and beauty of the island.

Structure

This series is a juxtaposition of a graceful human form in a structured environment. Focusing on lines and form, these images capture flexibility, strength, and poise. The subject holds her own in the space. She is one with it and equally as powerful as she balances herself in various poses.

The Hotshots

This is a documentary series about young girls just starting out in a rigorous sport. Focusing on their warm up stretches, is an extension of the theme that they are beginners. Before doing the insanely difficult tricks that are seen in the Olympics, these young girls have to learn the basics. To them, the tricks they see the older girls do are unfathomable. But like any other sport, one has to start somewhere. It is a strenuous and enthusiastic process that is both difficult and rewarding.

Competition

Strain

This work depicts the struggle between adult and child. The sport of gymnastics is very demanding especially if one wants to be successful. These images are a reflection of my childhood in this sport. A wave of emotions and rationality are always present. What is so difficult and sometimes painful is also beneficial. These images convey physical stress and have underlying signs of an emotional struggle. My goal is to encourage thought and rational with how we as adults engage with children, and whether our interactions with them are harmful or helpful.

Child Portraiture

Figure

This is a study of body lines and contours. Focusing on movement and static poses, these images expose the human form of an athlete.